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As the deer populations grow and urban habitats continue to encroach upon rural environments, there has been an increase in deer-car collisions.Ìý are dangerous and costly so, though collision with an animal is covered under the comprehensive portion of , it's always preferable to avoid an accident in the first place.

To avoid hitting a deer, use these defensive driving tips

• Be especially attentive during peak deer hours. From sunset to midnight and during the hours shortly before and after sunrise are the highest risk times for deer-vehicle collisions
• Use extra caution when driving through deer-crossing zones. Also be especially careful in places known to have a large deer population and in areas where roads divide agricultural fields from forestland.
• Know that deer seldom run alone. If you see one deer, others may be nearby.
• Use high beam headlights if driving at night, when there is no oncoming traffic. The higher light will better illuminate the eyes of deer on or near the roadway.
• Slow down and blow your horn with one long blast to frighten the deer away.
• Brake firmly but stay in your lane when you notice a deer in or near your path. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or lose control of their cars.
• Always wear your seat belt. Most people injured in car-deer crashes were not wearing their seat belt.
• Do not rely on deer-deterring devices. Deer whistles, deer fences and reflectors have not been proven to reduce deer-vehicle collisions.
• If your vehicle strikes a deer, do not touch the animal. A frightened and wounded deer can hurt you or further injure itself. The best procedure is to get your car off the road, if possible, and call the police.
• In the event a deer damages your car contact your insurance agent or company representative to report the incident.

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